A A IELTS SPEAKING

Using connectors
Lesson code: 12CL-S31D-T5EJ

1 Presentation
In parts 2 and 3 of the IELTS speaking test, you will need to speak at length about a particular issue.
It is important to develop your ideas using appropriate connecting words and phrases. Study how the
connecting words/phrases in bold are used in the answer below.

Examiner: How efficient is the transport system in your city?

Candidate: Well, if we're talking public transportation, we have many different types of transport, for
example trams, buses, trains, a metro. So I think it's quite efficient. In fact, I believe we have
one of the most efficient public transport systems in Europe. However, regarding private
transport, there are many problems. Firstly, more and more people can afford a car so the
traffic can be very bad, especially during rush hour. On top of that, we have a lot of
investment projects in progress, so there are road works everywhere. This makes the
problem even worse. But, on the whole, I would say our transport system is efficient -- just
don't drive a car!

Introducing one aspect of a topic: If we're talking (public transportation),

Regarding (private transport),
Listing or adding your reasons: Firstly, On top of that,
Describing a situation in general: On the whole,
Giving an example: For example,
Making a contrast: However, But,
Modifying/correcting what you just said: In fact,
Giving yourself a little time to think: Well,
Talking about the result of a situation: So,

Points to remember

• Do not overuse connectors that are slightly formal. These include: in addition, therefore, regarding
and however.
• Avoid using very formal connectors such as furthermore, moreover, thus and hence. Some of these
can be good for writing, but they are usually too formal for speaking.

• Do not overuse connectors in general. Your English will sound unnatural if you try to force a connector
in every sentence.

You can review this worksheet online at www.linguahouse.com/ex 1/2

Review your flashcards at least 3-5 times a week for 20 minutes to keep the material fresh in your memory.
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 Using connectors
A A A A IELTS SPEAKING

2 Practice
In the sentences below, there are some more words and expressions that you can use to develop an
argument in speaking. Put them in the correct categories in the table on page 1.

1. Living in a big city is very stressful. Therefore, I'd prefer to live in a small town.
2. Basically, there are three reasons why I'd like to live in a big city.
3. On the other hand, I think there are a few important drawbacks.
4. Concerning shopping, I think it's much better to live in a big city than a small town.
5. There are a few reasons why I didn't enjoy my trip. First of all, the hotel was awful. What's more, the
weather was cold and wet.
6. In general, I think the food in my country is healthy.
7. I live a very healthy lifestyle. For instance, I don't drink or smoke.
8. Crime in my city is a serious problem. Actually, we have one of the highest levels of crime in the
country.
9. I live a very healthy lifestyle. For a start, I don't drink or smoke.
10. I think learning languages is very important. In the first place, you have more job opportunities.
11. Typically, people in my country work very hard.
12. Despite the high cost, we decided to stay at the 5-star hotel.
13. I don't watch TV very often. Because of that, I'm not familiar with television serials.
14. As far as shopping is concerned, I think it's much better to live in a big city than a small town.

3 Practice
Work in pairs. Take turns to select, ask and answer a question from the list below. After you have used
at least 3-4 connectors in your answer, move on to the next question.

1. How important is learning languages?

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using mobile devices?
3. What can people do to protect the environment?
4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of public transportation?
5. Is crime a problem in your country?
6. Do you think computer games are good or bad for children?
7. Why do people travel?
8. What would your ideal home look like? Why?

You can review this worksheet online at www.linguahouse.com/ex 2/2

Review your flashcards at least 3-5 times a week for 20 minutes to keep the material fresh in your memory.
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 Using connectors - Key
A A A A IELTS SPEAKING

1- Presentation

Go through the sample answer, table and notes. Explain that in order to get a high band in the test, students
should show that they can use a variety of appropriate connectors.

2- Practice

Students of similar level can work in pairs. Some connectors may belong to more than one category.
1. Talking about the result of a situation
2. Giving yourself a little time to think; Describing a general situation
3. Making a contrast
4. Introducing one aspect of a topic
5. Listing or adding your reasons
6. Describing a situation in general
7. Giving an example
8. Modifying what you just said
9. Giving an example; Listing or adding your reasons
10. Listing or adding your reasons
11. Describing a situation in general
12. Making a contrast
13. Talking about the result of a situation
14. Introducing one aspect of a topic

3- Practice

Demonstrate the pair work activity with a strong student. Set a time limit for this task. Encourage students to use
a variety of connectors, not the same ones each time.

You can review this worksheet online at www.linguahouse.com/ex i

Review your flashcards at least 3-5 times a week for 20 minutes to keep the material fresh in your memory.
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Linguahouse.com